Long snapper who played in the NFL for 11 seasons, earning two Pro Bowl selections and setting a record for most consecutive games played by a Browns player.
Ryan Pontbriand is a former American professional football player who made history as the highest-drafted pure long snapper in the National Football League (NFL) draft. With a remarkable career spanning over a decade, Pontbriand played for the Cleveland Browns and the San Francisco 49ers, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
Born on October 1, 1979, Pontbriand grew up in Sugar Land, Texas, where he attended Clements High School. During his high school years, he was a three-year letterman and a full-time starter on the football team's offensive line. His impressive performances earned him a first-team all-district selection as a senior and an honorable mention as a junior.
After graduating from high school, Pontbriand attended Rice University, where he redshirted his first year of eligibility in 1998. While at Rice, he was the team's long snapper and graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering.
In the fifth round of the 2003 NFL draft, Pontbriand was selected by the Cleveland Browns with the 142nd overall pick, making him one of only thirteen long snappers drafted since 1982. During his time with the Browns, Pontbriand missed only five games due to a back injury in the 2005 season.
His exceptional skills earned him a Pro Bowl selection as the need player in 2007 and 2008. However, on November 29, 2011, Pontbriand was released by the Browns due to an injury that was believed to be career-ending.
In 2012, Pontbriand signed with the San Francisco 49ers, providing competition to Brian Jennings at the position. Although his stint with the 49ers was short-lived, Pontbriand's legacy in the NFL remained unchanged.
Ryan Pontbriand's remarkable career serves as a testament to his dedication, perseverance, and exceptional skills as a long snapper. With his record-breaking draft selection, Pontbriand paved the way for future generations of long snappers, leaving an indelible mark on the NFL.
As a true icon in the world of American football, Pontbriand's legacy continues to inspire and motivate aspiring athletes, solidifying his place in the annals of NFL history.
44 Years Old
Quarterback who led the Pittsburgh Steelers to multiple Super Bowl victories, earning six Pro Bowl selections and setting numerous franchise records.
50 Years Old
A trailblazing NFL wide receiver who broke barriers as one of the first Korean-American players in the league, earning four Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl ring.
45 Years Old
A dominant strong safety in the NFL, known for his iconic hair and hard-hitting plays, helping the Pittsburgh Steelers win two Super Bowls.
49 Years Old
A dominant nose tackle in the NFL, known for his impressive career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, earning five Pro Bowl selections and helping the team win two Super Bowl championships.
48 Years Old
A dominant linebacker who played 17 seasons in the NFL, earning five Pro Bowl selections and two Super Bowl championships, known for his intense playing style and iconic interception return in Super Bowl XLIII.
42 Years Old
A dominant linebacker who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Oakland Raiders, earning 11 sacks in his 2008 season and winning Super Bowl XLIII.
48 Years Old
Defensive end who played 13 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Pittsburgh Steelers, earning two Super Bowl rings and five Pro Bowl selections.
